The shopping centre was evacuated and closed for the day as the bomb squad searched the centre for other devices.

Rutherford appeared at Preston Magistrates Court on Thursday morning. He is due back in court on Friday 8 January.

A 27 year old man from Penwortham who was also arrested in connection with the investigation was released on police bail until 28th January. At this stage there is not thought to be any connection between the two men.